Antonio Lampis to Lead Italy's General Directorate of Museums Amid Controversy

Antonio Lampis is expected to be appointed as the new head of the General Directorate of Museums (Direzione Generale Musei) under Italy's Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities (Mibact), replacing Ugo Soragni who is retiring. The directorate coordinates management, accessibility, and communication for state museums, a role that gained strategic importance under Minister Dario Franceschini, who launched a major competition to direct 30 museums and archaeological sites. Lampis, 53, from Bolzano, currently directs the provincial culture, education, and libraries division (Ripartizione 15) and has held roles including president of the Teatro Civico and auditorium foundation, vice president of the Museion foundation, and board member for Manifesta 7. His nomination has sparked controversy due to an ongoing investigation for alleged damages of €470,000 related to Bolzano's failed bid for European Capital of Culture 2019. Lampis has denied wrongdoing, stating in a letter to union critic Giuseppe Urbino that he acted lawfully and has served the state for 36 years. The union Confsal-Unsa has called the appointment unacceptable and suspicious. Lampis declined to comment until official confirmation.